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Soft Top Boards: Your Comprehensive Guide to Choosing the Perfect Foam Surfboard

Soft top boards, also known as foam surfboards or “foamies,” have surged in popularity in recent years. Once relegated to beginner status, these boards are now embraced by surfers of all skill levels, from novices learning to pop up to seasoned pros seeking a fun and forgiving ride. This guide delves into the world of soft top boards, exploring their construction, benefits, drawbacks, and how to choose the right one for your needs.

What are Soft Top Boards?

Soft top boards are surfboards distinguished by their soft, foam deck. Unlike traditional hard surfboards made of fiberglass and resin over a foam core, soft top boards feature a softer, more forgiving foam layer on the deck. This foam is typically made of polyethylene (PE) or ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA), providing a comfortable and grippy surface for surfers.

Construction of Soft Top Boards

A typical soft top board consists of several key components:

Foam Core: The core is usually made of expanded polystyrene (EPS) or expanded polyethylene (EPE) foam. EPS cores are lightweight and buoyant, while EPE cores are more durable and water-resistant.
Soft Top Deck: This is the defining feature, made of PE or EVA foam. The deck provides cushioning, grip, and impact absorption.
Bottom Deck: The bottom of the board is often made of high-density polyethylene (HDPE), which is durable and provides stiffness. Some soft top boards have slick bottoms for added speed.
Stringer System: Stringers are wooden or composite strips running lengthwise through the core, adding strength and preventing the board from bending excessively.
Fins: Soft top boards typically come with flexible, removable fins. These fins provide stability and control in the water.

Benefits of Soft Top Boards

Soft top boards offer numerous advantages, making them a versatile choice for a wide range of surfers:

Safety: The soft deck minimizes the risk of injury from collisions. This is especially important for beginners who are still learning to control their board.
Buoyancy: Soft top boards are generally more buoyant than hard surfboards, making them easier to paddle and catch waves.
Stability: The wider and thicker design of many soft top boards provides excellent stability, helping beginners maintain their balance.
Durability: While not indestructible, soft top boards are more resistant to dings and damage than traditional fiberglass boards.
Affordability: Soft top boards are typically less expensive than hard surfboards, making them an accessible option for beginners and budget-conscious surfers.
Fun Factor: Soft top boards are simply fun to ride. Their forgiving nature allows surfers to experiment and progress without the pressure of performance.

Drawbacks of Soft Top Boards

Despite their many benefits, soft top boards also have some limitations:

Performance: Soft top boards generally don’t perform as well as hard surfboards in larger or more powerful waves. Their flexibility can limit their responsiveness and control.
Speed: While some soft top boards have slick bottoms to improve speed, they are generally slower than hard surfboards due to their increased drag.
Durability (Long-Term): While resistant to dings, the foam deck can eventually degrade with prolonged exposure to sun and saltwater.
Maneuverability: Due to their size and shape, soft top boards can be less maneuverable than shorter, more refined hard surfboards.

Choosing the Right Soft Top Board

Selecting the right soft top board depends on several factors, including your skill level, weight, and the type of waves you plan to surf.

Skill Level

Beginners: Beginners should opt for larger, wider soft top boards (8′ to 9′ in length) with ample volume. These boards provide maximum stability and buoyancy, making it easier to learn the basics.
Intermediate Surfers: Intermediate surfers can choose shorter soft top boards (6′ to 8′ in length) with a more refined shape. These boards offer a balance of stability and maneuverability.
Advanced Surfers: Advanced surfers might choose smaller, more performance-oriented soft top boards (5′ to 7′ in length) for a fun and playful alternative to their hard surfboards.

Weight

Your weight is a crucial factor in determining the appropriate volume of your soft top board. Heavier surfers require boards with more volume to ensure adequate buoyancy.

Wave Type

The type of waves you plan to surf will also influence your choice of soft top board. For small, mellow waves, a larger, more buoyant board is ideal. For larger, more powerful waves, a shorter, more maneuverable board may be preferred. However, remember that soft tops are generally best suited for smaller surf.

Popular Soft Top Board Brands

Several brands offer high-quality soft top boards:

Wavestorm: Wavestorm is perhaps the most well-known brand of soft top boards, renowned for their affordability and durability. Their 8′ classic surfboard is a popular choice for beginners.
South Bay Board Co.: South Bay Board Co. offers a range of soft top boards with a focus on quality and performance. Their boards feature premium materials and innovative designs.
California Board Company (CBC): CBC offers a variety of soft top boards for different skill levels and wave types. Their boards are known for their durability and value.
Liquid Shredder: Liquid Shredder specializes in soft top boards designed for a variety of water sports, including surfing, paddleboarding, and wakeboarding.
Catch Surf: Catch Surf is known for its stylish and performance-oriented soft top boards. Their boards are popular among both beginners and experienced surfers.

Caring for Your Soft Top Board

Proper care will extend the lifespan of your soft top board:

Rinse with Fresh Water: After each surf session, rinse your board with fresh water to remove salt, sand, and debris.
Store in a Cool, Dry Place: Store your board out of direct sunlight and away from extreme temperatures.
Avoid Sharp Objects: Be careful to avoid contact with sharp objects that could damage the foam deck.
Repair Dings Promptly: Repair any dings or punctures in the foam deck as soon as possible to prevent water from entering the core.
Use a Board Bag: A board bag will protect your board from scratches, dings, and UV damage during transport and storage.

Are Soft Top Boards Right for You?

Soft top boards are an excellent choice for beginners, families, and anyone looking for a fun and forgiving surfing experience. While they may not offer the same performance as hard surfboards in all conditions, their safety, buoyancy, and affordability make them a valuable addition to any surfer’s quiver. Whether you’re just starting out or looking for a playful alternative to your traditional board, a soft top board is worth considering. With the right choice and proper care, a soft top board can provide years of enjoyment in the water. They are also great for introducing children to the sport. Many families prefer the safety of a soft top board when teaching their kids how to surf. Also consider a soft top board as a great way to enjoy smaller summer waves.

Consider the size and shape of the soft top board, and make sure it suits your skill level. Also, think about the conditions you’ll be surfing in most often. This will help you make the best decision. Remember to always prioritize safety and have fun!

[See also: How to Choose the Right Surfboard for Beginners]
[See also: Surfboard Maintenance Tips]
[See also: The Best Surf Spots for Learning to Surf]